Before his passing, Robert Redford — one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors and directors — shared a message that feels even more powerful now.
In what would turn out to be his final interview, the 89-year-old reflected on creativity, resilience, and the importance of storytelling.
On Tuesday, it was announced that Redford had died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Utah, just outside of Provo.
The news came through Cindi Berger, chief executive of Rogers & Cowan PMK.
Advice for Young Filmmakers
In November, Redford spoke with Orion Magazine, offering guidance to those just beginning their filmmaking journeys.
His words carried both wisdom and encouragement.
“Well, I would say, start by getting involved. Don’t take it lightly and move on to the next thing and the next thing and the next thing,” he explained.
Instead, he urged aspiring filmmakers to slow down and allow themselves to connect deeply with their projects.
“That will give you the energy to stick with it long enough to make change.”
Believing in Your Work
Redford also reminded young creators that rejection is part of the process.
“You have to believe in your own projects and ideas more than anyone else,” he said, stressing the importance of finding the drama or story that captures people’s attention.
For him, the future of film rested in the hands of the younger generation.
“The future is about the young people… who are going to carry this work forward,” he added, emphasizing the growing influence of new voices in storytelling.
Quoting poet T. S. Eliot, he reflected: “For us, there is only the trying. The rest is not our business.”
A Legendary Hollywood Career
Robert Redford wasn’t just an actor — he was a force in Hollywood for decades.
Known for classics like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and All the President’s Men, he became one of the most recognizable leading men of his time.
Later, he turned to directing and quickly made his mark. In 1980, he won an Oscar for Ordinary People.
His 1994 film Quiz Show also earned him nominations for both Best Picture and Best Director at the Academy Awards.
Founding the Sundance Legacy
Beyond his own films, Redford built opportunities for others.
In 1981, he launched the nonprofit Sundance Institute, and by 1984 he had transformed a small struggling festival into what we now know as the Sundance Film Festival.
Based in Park City, Utah, Sundance grew into one of the most influential platforms for independent filmmakers.
Directors like Quentin Tarantino, Ava DuVernay, James Wan, and Darren Aronofsky all showcased their early work there — proof of Redford’s lasting impact on cinema.
Later Work and Accolades
Even in later years, Redford continued to act, appearing in roles such as Bill Bryson in A Walk in the Woods (2015) and John Gage in Indecent Proposal (1993).
Over his lifetime, he received numerous awards, including multiple Golden Globes and his Academy Award for Best Director.
A Lasting Inspiration
Robert Redford leaves behind more than just a body of work — he leaves behind a legacy of mentorship, innovation, and encouragement.
His final words serve as a reminder to every creative dreamer: stay committed, believe in your vision, and keep trying.